the floating panel top of standard miter, mortise and tenon construction with a flush tongue and groove floating panel above a recessed waist and apron, tenoned and half-lapped to the square section legs extending down and terminating in well-defined hoof feet

Grace Wu Bruce Company Ltd., Hong Kong.

There is slight shrinkage of the top panel. The frame has been previously tightened and there may be some related replacements. One leg with a patched mortise joint.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

 Taller versions of this form were used for displaying rock sculptures, miniature plants (penzai). vases of flowers and incense burners.  This rare, lower form was also used for the aforementioned but the height is also perfect for use while seated and so is associated with an early style of tea table. These stands are the predecessors of the Qing dynasty tea tables and were depicted in Ming paintings and woodblock prints as stands for incense burners. A related example from the Vok collection is illustrated in Nicholas Grindley, Pure Form, Classical Chinese Furniture, Vok Collection, Munich, 2004, no. 35 where the author describes a very early version of the table, a painting "Washing the Moon" by an unknown painter of the Five Dynasties or possibly a late Song copy includes a red lacquer table of similar form